A handsome Smith's terrestrial globe, circa 1860. Mounted on a brass semi-meridian that sits on a turned wooden upright and circular base.
Printed in several colours, the globe comprises of twelve paper gores over a 3½ iinch gesso covered sphere.The age of the globe has been determined by the named areas displayed and the political borders shown.
The globe is nicely detailed and has a grid network of parallels and meridians. It shows all the continents and countries as they were at the time it was printed. A cartouche is present that includes the title and maker's address.
Dimensions: 9cm/3½ inches (diameter of globe) x 11cm/4⅜ inches (diameter of base) x 18.5cm/7¼ inches (Height on Stand).
Charles Smith was a noted stationer, map and globe seller in London from about 1800. From around 1830 the business name became Charles Smith & Son, and from 1853 the business was owned by Charles' son William.
Smith and Son produced a number of well engraved maps and several fine atlases. Their globes and maps are very distinctive, characterised by their lucid, fine engraving and vibrant colour washes that combine to make them both attractive and informative.
